THERE'S a new face on the board of Severn Valley Railway Holdings with the arrival of Andy Barr, who is currently head of heritage operations for London Underground. Mr Barr has been working with the SVR in a voluntary capacity since September 2013, but has worked in the rail industry for more than 47 years and also has experience of working with voluntary organisations and heritage railways.

In his voluntary role with the SVR, he has been assisting general manager Nick Ralls and operations manager Phil Brown in reviewing current operations, practice and procedures and in upgrading the railway’s operational safety systems. Mr Barr was previously head of emergency management, control and event management for the London Underground. He was awarded an MBE for services to the rail industry in 2004.

Nick Paul, chairman of SVR Holdings, said: “Andy takes over from Nick Wright, a practicing barrister, who because of work commitments has stepped down from the Holding Board creating a vacancy. The board wish to record their thanks for all that Nick has done and welcome his intention to continue working as a volunteer. The SVR Holdings Board is looking forward to welcoming Andy to the team and values the skills and expertise that he brings with him.”